Hunger Has A Cure

By Ben Akabueze

I have read several posts suggesting that the lockdown solution to Nigeria’s Covid-19 challenge is not working. I am however yet to read a clearly articulated and implementable alternative solution that will guarantee better results. The truth is we are caught between a rock and a hard place! At times like this, it is often wisdom to err on the side of caution.

Without a doubt, the lockdown compounds social problems especially for the poor. However, there is the argument that hunger has a cure – FOOD. But coronavirus has no known cure yet.

So, why don’t we focus on how we can all help to ensure no Nigerian dies of hunger during this period. The truth is that government alone has neither the structure nor the resources to reach all needy Nigerians.

Another truth is that the most effective social security system in this country over the many decades of our existence has been the extended family system.

This is a time for those of us who are better endowed to oil the extended family system. This is without prejudice to the need for governments across the country to up their game in this regard.

Akabueze is the Director General, Budget Office of the Federation